The Gene Encoding Coat Color Is X- Linked, and Male

Short Answer

The gene encoding coat color is X- linked, and male cats have a single copy of the X chromosome. They can therefore express either the O or o allele, resulting in orange or black coat, respectively. Female cats, on the other hand, have two copies of the X chromosome. Thus, they can be heterozygous and express either orange or black pattern called tortoiseshell. Using this information, list the possible genotypes for these individuals:
• orange male
• orange female
• black male
• black female
• tortoiseshell